The inquiry regarding our reason for being comes often. It seems to baffle some, and inspire others, but our reason for being is simple: provide access to information. In a time where authority is brought into question, and the defining people of a populace rise with the tide of their collective dissatisfaction, there is no moment more opportune to provide for the information needs of a citizenry that hungers for answers, alternatives and understanding. It is here that a library comes into her own as a beacon of freedom and intellect, and it is here that The People’s Library finds definition.

The sentiment of those occupying is that we are the victims of unfairness, unconscionable decision-making and the gnawing disease of uncertainty; all of which are avoidable and unnecessary. However, the cries of the brave have gone largely disregarded due to a perceived lack of coherent demand and plan of action. In answer to this, The People’s Library has deemed it a mission to afford every person the literacy, insight and education to articulate their criticisms, to meet inquisition with a knowledgable sense of what is just, and to empower every person with the tools necessary to exercise their human right to know.

Now, more than ever, libraries of every kind must rise to the occasion of an inspired reader-base and make provisions for even the most insatiable minds. If nothing, what has been demonstrated by the movement of occupiers all over the world is that information, transparency and the ability to be a part of the greater conversation is tantamount to citizenship in the global community. What is being presented is the opportunity for a renaissance in social consciousness, and librarians are on the forefront of that potential.

One response to “The Literacy of the Leaderless”

” . . .what has been demonstrated by the movement of occupiers all over the world is that information, transparency and the ability to be a part of the greater conversation is tantamount to citizenship in the global community. What is being presented is the opportunity for a renaissance in social consciousness . . .”

Brilliantly put. I’ve been thinking about the question at the end of “The Time Machine” – if you were going to rebuild a civilization, “Which three books would you have taken?”